Rafael Nadal, a 22-time grand slam champion considered one of the greatest tennis players of all time, says he will retire from the sport after the Davis Cup finals next month.
In a video posted on social media, the 38-year-old Spaniard indicated his decision was related to persistent injury problems that had resulted in "some difficult years, these last two especially".
"I don't think I have been able to play without limitations," he said.
"It is obviously a difficult decision, one that has taken me some time to make.
"But, in this life, everything has a beginning and an end, and I think it's an appropriate time to put an end to a career that has been long and much more successful than I could have ever imagined."
Nadal won 22 grand slam singles titles during an unprecedented era he shared with his rivals in the so-called "Big Three", Roger Federer and Novak Djokovic.
His grand slam wins included the 2009 and 2022 Australian Open tournaments, as well as a record 14 French Open titles.
The "King of Clay" won his last Roland Garros title in 2022 and left Paris with a jaw-dropping 112-4 win-loss record.
After refusing any special event after his first-round loss in the tournament this year, Nadal said he would be back and he is now expected to receive what promises to be an emotional tribute in Paris next year.
'Closing the circle' on a stellar career
The Davis Cup knockout phase that will mark the final games of his career will be played from November 19 to November 24.
"I am very excited that my last tournament will be the Davis Cup representing my country," Nadal said in his announcement video.
"It's closing the circle because one of my first joys was the final in Sevilla in 2004."
He also thanked his family and his team for his stellar career, saving a special word for his uncle Toni, who was his coach for most of his time on the court.
"I believe that thanks to him, I have also been able to overcome many situations that have been difficult in my sporting career," he said.
To his fans, Nadal said: "I can't thank you enough for what you have made me feel. Everything I have experienced has been a dream come true.
"I leave with absolute peace of mind having given my best."
ABC/Wires
